El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (The Royal Road to the Interior) was the official road from Spain bringing the first colonists to the region beginning in 1598, 22 years before the Mayflower. This emigrant trail brought thousands of Spanish and Mexican colonists to New Mexico until the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s.

The unique culture, history and people of New Mexico trace their roots to the Camino Real. Though not used for over a century, remnants of the Camino Real, Indian pueblos, and other cultural sites along the trail are being preserved today. The towns and villages along the Rio Grande, and the Camino Real, are some of the oldest settlements in North America. El Camino Real is a National Historic Trail.

Our museum contains award winning exhibits and artifacts presenting the history and heritage of this famous trail, life in Mexico and New Mexico during the 1600s colonial era, and the unique history that formed the American Southwest. Our museum is suitable for visitors of all ages with ample parking for cars and RVs, and handicap accessible.